Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 November 2004
192 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will not close the Garda station in Mullinavat, County Kilkenny, to ensure that the present effective Garda service is maintained inMullinavat and the surrounding areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30591/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are currently no plans to close the Garda Station at Mullinavat, County Kilkenny.
In regard to Garda resources generally, I am pleased to say the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with the commitment in this regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government, and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force. The commissioner will now draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these resources. Additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to significantly increase the number of Garda allocated to traffic duties. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high-visibility policing where they will have a real impact.
